Sally in Our Alley, from Illustration for "Sally in Our Alley" by H. Carey) 1881 - 1891

Edwin Austin Abbey created this pen and ink drawing titled "Sally in Our Alley" to illustrate a poem by H. Carey. Abbey was an American artist known for his illustrations of literary works. He often depicted scenes from British and American history and literature, reflecting the cultural interests of his time. This particular illustration visualizes a ballad that explores themes of love and social class. Sally, the subject of the poem, is admired by the speaker, despite her being of a lower social standing. The figures in the drawing, with their period costumes and idealized features, evoke a sense of nostalgia. While seemingly quaint, the image subtly touches on the dynamics between social classes and romantic affection. Abbey's illustration invites us to consider how representations of love and desire can be shaped by societal norms and hierarchies.